City of Long Beach to Reopen Playgrounds In Alignment with State’s Regional Stay at Home Order

Long Beach, CA – In alignment with changes to the State of California’s Regional Stay at Home Order, the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services will issue an updated Health Order that allows playgrounds to reopen. The changes are effective Thursday, Dec. 10.

Outdoor playgrounds, which had previously been closed in alignment with the State’s guidelines, may reopen to facilitate physically distanced personal health and wellness through outdoor exercise. Those who choose to use playgrounds should practice physical distancing, wear face coverings and avoid touching one’s face, especially after touching playground surfaces. The City urges parents to speak with their children about these protocols prior to using a playground and also use hand sanitizer in between activities.

Playgrounds located in schools that remain open for in-person instruction, and not accessible by the general public, may also remain open and must follow guidance for schools and school-based programs.

On Dec. 6, the City issued a Health Order that prohibits or limits most non-essential activities, in alignment with the State’s Regional Stay at Home Order.

Staying home and avoiding contact with people outside of one’s household remains the best way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. Wear a face covering over the mouth and nose when stepping outside and around others. Practice physical distancing and wash hands frequently. Especially avoid being around others when sick or not feeling well.

This action was put in place by the City Health Officer, Dr. Anissa Davis, and in accordance with the Emergency Powers granted to the City Manager through the Proclamation of Local Emergency. It is effective as of Dec. 10 and will continue until it is extended, rescinded or amended in writing by the Health Officer.

For the latest information on COVID-19, with details on all that the City of Long Beach is doing to keep our residents safe, visit longbeach.gov/COVID19 and follow @LongBeachCity on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.